Kenyan farmers have been cautioned against the overuse of synthetic fertilizers, with experts warning that decades of heavy reliance on chemical inputs are steadily eroding soil fertility and reducing productivity. Soil expert and CEO of Pure Plant Organics, Dennis Murithi, said continued dependence on synthetic fertilizers poses a serious threat to soil health and long-term food security. Murithi noted that degraded soils cannot retain water, support strong root systems, or resist pests and diseases—ultimately leading to lower yields. He further warned that overuse of fertilizers kills beneficial microbes, compacts the soil, and disrupts its natural balance. Murithi stressed that soil degradation risks triggering a food security crisis, as reduced yields mean less produce for markets, higher costs for farmers, and fewer resources for communities.
Kenya and the United States have taken a major step towards a reciprocal trade agreement following high-level discussions in Washington D.C. between Cabinet Secretary for Investments, Trade and Industry, Lee Kinyanjui, and U.S. Trade Representative, Ambassador Jamieson Greer. Kinyanjui emphasized Kenya’s commitment to deepening strategic ties with the United States, noting that a reciprocal pact will provide Kenyan exporters with long-term access to the U.S. market and attract new investments. He also conveyed President William Ruto’s goodwill message reaffirming Kenya’s dedication to strengthening bilateral trade and investment. Ambassador Greer welcomed Kenya’s approach and pledged U.S. support for a balanced framework that benefits both economies, pointing to opportunities in manufacturing, infrastructure, services, and agricultural exports.
With bilateral trade valued at US$1.5 billion in 2024, both sides believe a formal pact will significantly expand economic opportunities while preparing Kenya for the eventual expiry of preferential programs like AGOA. Technical teams from both governments are expected to begin consultations in the coming months.
The Institute of Human Resource Management (IHRM) has re-elected its chairperson for a second term, in an election that members described as historic for the statutory body that regulates the HR profession in Kenya. In his acceptance speech, Certified Human Resource Professional (CHRP) Dalmas Philip Odero, who will now serve another term as the IHRM Chairperson, said the overwhelming support he received was not a personal victory but a collective win for the profession. Odero paid tribute to the founders of IHRM, led by Mr. Adrian Mutesi and his first counsel, whose foresight 38 years ago gave rise to the institution. He also recognized his predecessors for transforming the institute from a private entity into a statutory professional body. The IHRM Chairperson congratulated his opponent for a spirited contest, noting that the campaign was not divisive but a reflection of passion for the profession. He also commended the IHRM Secretariat led by Executive Director, Ms. Kureisha Abdullahi, whose dedication he said has raised the institute’s profile nationally and regionally.
Reflecting on his first term, CHRP Odero apologized to members who may have been offended by his remarks or decisions, while forgiving critics in the spirit of reconciliation.
The Abdalla Muse community of the Greater Samawathal in Garissa County converged in Masalani Town, Ijara Sub-County, for a landmark meeting aimed at fostering unity and pursuing a common vision on social, economic and political issues affecting the community both locally and in the diaspora. As the leading clan of the Greater Samawathal and part of the wider Ogaden community, Abdalla Muse leaders and elders pledged to work closely and remain united to strengthen cohesion across all spheres of society. A technical committee was unveiled to spearhead the unity drive and bring on board those yet to join the dialogue. The team will be led by Mzee Ali Site Sagar, alongside Ali Abdullahi Dahir, Yussuf Irshad Dagane, Mzee Ragow Khalif, and Idris Bashir Olow. Community leaders hailed the Masalani meeting as historic, noting that the Abdalla Muse had never gathered in such big numbers and in unity before, despite past divisions and divergent views. Speaking at the forum, Chairman Mzee Ali Site Sagar urged members to put aside differences and focus on their shared aspirations.
On Friday, the Principal Secretary State Department for Water and Sanitation Julius Korir, accompanied by the Water Secretary and all the Heads of Departments, held a meeting with officials from The Auditor-General’s office. The objectives of the meeting was to discuss the progress of the terms of reference, extent of reporting, access to records and specific officers, liaison teams and audit time frames. During the meeting, the PS directed the relevant officers to prepare and provide a status report for the ongoing projects to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and finance matters. The entry meeting was scheduled to cover Horn of Africa Ground Water for Resilience Project and Kenya Water,Sanitation and Hygiene Program (K-WASH). The Auditor-General’s team is expected to undertake the exercise in a seamless process with liaison personnel until the completion date after issuance of the management letter. The PS gave further directions that Heads of Departments should ensure the execution of the same is done as quickly as possible and in strict compliance with the set timelines.
Similar Posts by Mt Kenya Times:
- Mau Mau descendants push for recognition and compensation at Thika conference
- NEWS IN BRIEF 13 MAY 2026
- Exodus in Murang’a: 18 former MCAs join Safina in major political realignment
- Mt Kenya Times ePAPER May 13, 2026
- Democratic Party of Kenya strengthens global women leadership ties at Morocco conference